Rescue breathing apparatus

ABSTRACT

A rescue tube comprising a tube having a first and second end, a one-way valve and a ported double swivel elbow; wherein the one-way valve and ported double swivel elbow are connected to one another, and the one-way valve is attached to the tube.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/983,963 filed on May 18, 2018, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/508,765 filed on May 19, 2017,with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the contents ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present application is related to a breathing apparatus, forproviding rescue breathing to a patient who is either limited in theirability to breathe or is unable to breathe.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Current rescue breathing technology is primarily related to directmouth-to-mouth CPR and breathing bags. Breathing bags, such as those byAMBU® are compressible bags that compress the air in the bag and allowthat air to be directed towards the lungs of a patient in need ofbreathing support. The breathing bags are single use devices and havebeen in use for decades.

To use an AMBU® bag, the bag is connected to an endotracheal tube, whichis inserted into the patient's mouth and into the esophagus. Once theendotracheal tube is inserted, the bag is compressed to provide air.While these devices have had a long history of success, they suffer fromseveral issues, specifically related to their single direction offunctionality, size, and cost. For example, one issue is that the bagneeds to be attached to the endotracheal tube with a particularorientation. Accordingly, once the bag is attached to the tube, thecomponents must be held in that orientation to prevent the tube frombeing displaced from the patient. Furthermore, the bag is placed nearlyon the patient's face, and movement of the patient or other obstaclesnear the patient's mouth can be problematic for sufficient compressionor even just for use of the device at all. Accordingly, as the bag needsto have sufficient space to be compressed, in certain instances, it isnearly impossible to properly use such a bag or to keep the endotrachealtube properly inserted into the patient for rescue breathing.

Bags can also be attached directly to a face mask, instead of a tube.Again, this poses the same issue with regard to proximity and obstaclesin front of the patient's face, to prevent appropriate rescue breathing.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following presents a simplified summary of the invention in order toprovide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. Thissummary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is notintended to identify key/critical elements of the invention or todelineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to presentsome concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to themore detailed description that is presented later.

In a particular embodiment, a rescue breathing apparatus comprises aflexible tubing having a patient side end and a rescue side end(opposing ends of the tube), the patient side end connected to anadapter, which connects to a one-way valve. The one-way valve has afirst and second end, the first connected to the adapter the opposingend connected to a double swivel elbow. The rescue side end of the tubeis connected to a mouthpiece to allow for air to be generated throughthe tube.

In a particular embodiment, the double swivel elbow is connected to anairway generating device, including but not limited to an endotrachealintubation, surgical cricothyrotomy, an airway adjunct, or a facemask.The rescue side end of the rescue breathing apparatus is connected to amouthpiece, wherein a breath can be provided by rescue personnel.Alternatively, an air compression bag can replace the mouthpiece and becompressed by hand or mechanical force to provide air. Alternatively, anair compression machine can provide air through the tube.

A particular embodiment is directed towards a rescue tube comprising atube having a first and second end, a one-way valve and a ported doubleswivel elbow; wherein the one-way valve and ported double swivel elboware connected to one another, and the one-way valve is attached to thetube. The rescue tube further comprising a first adapter disposed ofbetween the first end of said tube and the one-way valve. The rescuetube further comprising a second adapter disposed of on the second endof said tube. The rescue tube wherein said ported double swivel elbow isa Y-shaped apparatus comprising a first and second opening, and a port.In certain embodiments, said ported double swivel has said first openingattached to a one-way valve and said second open attached to an airwayadjunct. In certain embodiments, the double swivel elbow comprises anaccordion portion.

A method of providing rescue breathing to a patient comprisingintubating said patient with an airway adjunct; attaching to said airwayadjunct a rescue tube comprising a tube having a first and second end, aone-way valve and a ported double swivel elbow; wherein the one-wayvalve and ported double swivel elbow are connected to one another, andthe one-way valve is attached to the tube; breathing into said secondend of said tube. The method wherein said second end of said tubecomprises a mouthpiece. The method wherein further comprising attachingto said second end of said tube a bag device capable of being compressedto provide air to said patient, and compressing said bag to perform thestep of breathing into said second end of said tube.

A preferred embodiment is directed towards a rescue tube comprising atube having a proximal and distal end, and attached to the proximal endis a one-way valve, said one-way valve having a flow end and a checkend, and allowing flow of air from the distal end to the proximal end,and attached to the check end of the one-way valve is a ported doubleswivel elbow having a long arm and a short arm, and wherein the long armand short arms are attached at an angle with a passage allowing passageof gas through the short and long ends to the opening at each end,wherein the opening on the short arm is attached to the check end of theone-way valve, wherein the opening on the long arm is suitable forconnection to a breathing device; and wherein connected to the distalend of said tube is a mouthpiece.

In preferred embodiments, the rescue tube further comprising a firstadapter disposed of between the proximal end of said tube and the flowend of the one-way valve.

In preferred embodiments, the rescue tube further comprising a secondadapter disposed of on the distal end between the distal end of the tubeand the mouthpiece.

In preferred embodiments, the rescue tube wherein said ported doubleswivel elbow is a Y-shaped apparatus made of the short and long arms,and a port in the short arm, and comprising an accordion structure onthe long arm, said accordion structure capable of extending in lengthand flexing at least 90 degrees.

In preferred embodiments, the rescue tube wherein said breathing deviceis an airway adjunct. In preferred embodiments, the rescue tube whereinsaid airway adjunct is an endotracheal tube.

In a preferred embodiment, a method of providing rescue breathing to apatient comprising intubating said patient with an airway adjunct;attaching to said airway adjunct a rescue tube comprising a tube havinga proximal and distal end, and attached to the proximal end is a one-wayvalve, said one-way valve having a flow end and a check end, andallowing flow of air from the distal end to the proximal end, andattached to the check end of the one-way valve is a ported double swivelelbow having a long arm and a short arm, and wherein the long arm andshort arms are attached at an angle with a passage allowing passage ofgas through the short and long ends to the opening at each end, whereinthe opening on the short arm is attached to the check end of the one-wayvalve, wherein the opening on the long arm is connected to the airwayadjunct; and wherein connected to the distal end of said tube is an airimparting component capable of forcing air through the tube and into theairway adjunct; forcing air through the tube and into the airway adjunctto generating a breath to the patient; allowing the patient to exhalethe forced air.

The method wherein the air imparting component is a mouthpiece.

The method wherein a second person breathes into the mouthpiece to forceair through the tube.

The method wherein the air imparting component is a breathing bag.

The method wherein the breathing bag is compressed to force air throughthe tube.

A further preferred embodiment defining a rescue tube comprising alength of flexible tubing, defining a passage between a proximal anddistal end of said tube, and attached to the proximal end of said tubeis a one-way valve, said one-way valve having a flow end and a checkend, with said one-way valve oriented with the proximal end of said tubeengaged to the flow end of said one-way valve thereby allowing flow ofair from the distal end to the proximal end of said tube, and attachedto the check end of the one-way valve is a ported double swivel elbowhaving a long arm and a short arm, and wherein the long arm and shortarms are attached at an angle with a passage allowing passage of gasthrough the short and long ends to the opening at each end, wherein theopening on the short arm is attached to the check end of the one-wayvalve, wherein the opening on the long arm is suitable for connection toa breathing device; and wherein connected to the distal end of said tubeis air imparting structure.

In preferred embodiments, the rescue tube wherein said short armcomprises a self-sealing port.

In preferred embodiments, the rescue tube wherein the ported doubleswivel elbow comprises an accordion structure on the long arm, saidaccordion structure capable of bending. In preferred embodiments, therescue tube wherein said accordion structure is capable of bending atleast 90 degrees. In preferred embodiments, the rescue tube wherein saidaccordion structure is capable of extending in length.

In preferred embodiments, the rescue tube said tube having an innerdiameter between 10 and 25 mm.

In preferred embodiments, the rescue tube further comprising an adaptordefined to connect between the proximal end of said tube and saidone-way valve.

In preferred embodiments, the rescue tube further comprising an adaptordefined to connect to the distal end of said tube, and wherein an airimparting structure is connected to said adaptor. In preferredembodiments, the rescue tube wherein said air imparting structure isselected from: a mouthpiece; said mouthpiece comprising an insertion endconnected to said adaptor, and a breath giving end; said breath givingend comprising a flange, a breathing bag, or a mechanical air flowgenerating machine.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 depicts a rescue breathing apparatus.

FIG. 2 depicts a partial exploded view of a rescue breathing device.

FIG. 3 depicts an exploded view of a rescue breathing device.

FIG. 4 depicts a component of a rescue breathing device.

FIG. 5 depicts a component of a rescue breathing device.

FIG. 6 depicts a partial exploded view of components of a rescuebreathing apparatus.

FIG. 7 depicts a component of a rescue breathing apparatus.

FIG. 8 depicts a component of a rescue breathing apparatus.

FIGS. 9A-9C depict various views of a component of a rescue breathingapparatus.

FIGS. 10A and 10B depict various exploded views of opposing ends of arescue breathing apparatus.

FIG. 11 depicts a rescue breathing apparatus with an endotracheal tube.

FIG. 12 depicts a rescue breathing apparatus with a breathing bagattached at the rescue side end of the tube.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In a medical situation whether in military operation or emergencyevents, there are situations where rescue breathing must be provided toan unconscious patient who requires an airway to maintain oxygen to thelungs. In most instances today, a breathing bag, such as those by AMBU®,is frequently utilized, which can be held on the patient and compressedto force air into the lungs. The bag is directly attached to anendotracheal tube, and once the tube is inserted, the bag is compressed.After the patient's lungs are filled with air through the compression ofthe bag, the lungs, due to the weight of the cavity, decompress theforced air, and exhale the air, thus completing a single “breath.” Aftercompression, the bag reinflates, and the process can be repeated.Subsequently, another compression may proceed, to again force a breathinto the patient.

However, performing this procedure requires that at least one hand fromrescue personnel is placed onto the bag to perform these compressions.In some instances, two hands would be required to properly compress thebag and to give sufficient breath to a patient. The loss of a hand, orhands is problematic in both military instances as well as innonmilitary emergency situations.

Indeed, as described herein is a rescue tube comprising components andfeatures that allow for a user to maintain the use of their hands forother tasks, while providing rescue breathing to a patient. For example,breathing may be maintained, while the rescuer treats other wounds. Inmilitary situations, the rescuer may need hands to maintain a weapon orto remove both the rescuer and the injured from the battlefield asurgently as possible, and thus having free hands to maneuver ormanipulate additional devices is necessary. For example, the rescuer canuse both hands to lift and carry the injured away from the battlefield.

The rescue tube functions as an extension between the provider and thepatient. However, the patient must first have a breathing tube inserted.Examples of breathing tubes include endotracheal tubes, as well as mouthinsertion devices, for example, comprising cuffs to enter the trachea.Examples including the King Airway® and Combitube®, though other brandsand examples exist. In general, these devices are airway adjuncts,devices that can be placed into reach the trachea to provide oxygen. Formouth placed devices, these often include a balloon or cuff that blocksthe esophagus to allow air to enter the trachea, to fill the lung.

The embodiments of the invention described herein, provide a noveldevice, a rescue tube, to connect to one or more breathing devices. Forexample, as depicted in FIG. 1, a rescue tube (1) is depicted. Therescue tube (1) comprises a length of tubing (2), said tubing have aproximal opening to the patient (patient end) (22) and a distal opening(rescue end) (21) and each of the proximal (22) and distal (21) endsproviding passage of gas through the tube. In certain embodiments, thetube is a corrugated flexible polyurethane tubing having an outerdiameter of about 5 to about 50 mm, with an inner diameter of about 4 toabout 45 mm. Preferably the tube has an outer diameter of about 10-30mm, with an inner diameter of about 9-28 mm. Most preferably, the tubeis between about 10 and 22 mm, and each of the proximal (22) and distalends (21) capable of receiving a second component. In certainembodiments, the tubing can be any flexible tubing that allows for thepassage of gasses between the two ends.

Preferably, the second component to be received into the proximal (22)end of the tube (2) is an adaptor (10). For example, in the proximal(22) end of FIG. 1, an adaptor (10) is provided engaged into theproximal end (22), thus providing a new component for attachingadditional parts. The adaptor (10) is depicted in FIG. 7 in detail,having a first adaptor end (11) and a second adaptor end (13), and acentral connector junction (14) having a raised edge. The adaptor (10)is defined to have an outer diameter on the first end (11) and secondend (13) to fit into the proximal end (22) of the tube. Accordingly, theadaptor is mated to have a corresponding outer diameter that mates withthe inner diameter of the proximal end (22) of the tube. The proximalend (22) of the tube then mates onto the first end (11) as far as thecentral connector junction (14). The first end (11) and second end (13)of the adaptor are connected via a passage between each of the first end(11) and second end (13), thus the adaptor functions as an extension ofthe tube (2) allowing for passage of gasses through the adaptor (10).

The first end (11) and second end (13) of the adaptor are defined to bereceived into the proximal end (22) of the tube, on one end, and then tohave a suitable outer or inner diameter to mate with the flow sideopening (16) of the one-way valve (12). Accordingly, the adaptor (10)functions as one of ordinary skill in the art would expect it tofunction, it allows for connection of the proximal end of the tube (22)to the flow side opening (16) of the one-way valve. Those of skill inthe art will recognize that the adaptor (10) is necessary only so far asthe proximal end of the tube (22) requires such adaptor (10) to matewith the flow side opening (16) of the one-way valve. An appropriatetube diameter and corresponding diameter (or attachment means, forexample those used by Luer-Lock® or other known attachment means), wouldallow for exclusion of the adaptor (10).

The one-way valve (12) functions to allow air to only flow through fromthe flow side opening (16) through the one-way valve internal valve (19)and through to the one-way valve check side. As those of ordinary skillin the art recognize, the one-way valve allows air flow only from theflow side (16) through to the check side (17). If air is pressed backfrom the check side (17), it will not pass through the internal valve(19), but will instead be released through the internal valve (19) (as arelief valve) to allow the air to exit the valve, but not proceed intothe tube (2). Accordingly, this valve thus prevents passage of gassesback through this valve, and instead allows release of the exhaled gas.

The check side (17) then mates with a double swivel elbow (4). Finally,on the opposing end of the tube (2), (distal end of the tube [21]) amouthpiece (15) is attached. FIG. 2 specifically shows the mouthpiece(15) in the partial exploded view. The mouthpiece (15) will be insertedinto the distal end of the tube (21). As with the proximal end of thetube (21), an adaptor (10) may be utilized, should one be necessary tomate the tube diameter to the diameter of one end of the mouthpiece(15). For example, the adaptor (10) is depicted in FIG. 12 attaching tothe distal end (21) and attaching to a bag (40). As with the proximalend (22), the adaptor (10) is utilized to connect a further component tothe flexible tubing.

FIG. 3 provides an exploded view of each of the components in serial.The mouthpiece (15) connects into the distal end of the tube (21). Thenthe flexible length of tube (2) allows for passage of gasses from thedistal end (21) through to the proximal end (22) before the proximal end(22) is inserted an adaptor (10). The adaptor (10) first end (11) mateswith the proximal end (22) to an airtight seal (up to a sufficient PSIto allow for rescue breathing). However, some air passage may occur inone or more of the connections without destroying the function of thedevice, should each connecting not be perfectly airtight for the forceof air being provided.

Into the second end (13) of the adaptor (10) is the one-way valve (12).Into the check side (17) of the one-way valve is inserted the short arm(50) end (5) of the double swivel elbow (4). Air passes through thecheck valve from the flow side (16) through to the check side (17) andnow into the double swivel elbow (4). The long arm (51) of the doubleswivel elbow (4) possesses a junction (9) to allow for complete rotationof the double swivel elbow (4). Further the elbow (4) contains aself-sealing port (8). The long arm (51) of the double swivel elbow (4)further optionally possesses an accordion structure (7) to allow forfurther rotation and movement of the elbow (4), and ending on the longarm with a long arm opening (6).

FIG. 4 provides an embodiment of a tube (2). The tube can be any lengthof tubing allowing for passage of gas from the distal end (21) to theproximal end (22) and have openings at each end to either directlyreceive a second component, or to receive an adaptor. Typically, theopenings allow an insertion into the inner diameter, or alternativelyover the outer diameter of each of the proximal end (22) and distal end(21).

FIG. 5 depicts the mouthpiece (15). Mouthpiece (15) comprises aninsertion end (28) and a breath giving end (27). The breath giving end(27) is typically wider than the insertion end (28) and provides acomfortable fit for placing into the mouth of a rescuer. The breathgiving end (27) comprises a raised flange (29). This raised flange (29)allows for the mouthpiece breath giving end (27) to be in the mouth, andthe teeth or lips to hold the mouthpiece (15) without it slipping orfalling out of the mouth. The breath giving end (27) is connected to theinsertion end (28) with a passage, allowing for air to flow through themouthpiece (15), and again act as an extension of a tubular structure.

FIG. 6 provides as simple exploded view of the mouthpiece (15) insertionend (28) as it would be inserted into the distal end (21) of the tube.Conversely, on the opposing side at the proximal end (22), the adaptor(10) would be inserted into the proximal end (22).

FIG. 7, as described above, briefly, provides for an embodiment of anadaptor (10). The precise dimensions of the adaptor may be modifiedbased on the precise inner and outer dimensions of the components to beattached. Those of skill in the art recognize that each end of theadaptor can be the same or different sizes and can attach eitherinternally or externally to a component on each end. The adaptor (10)should be of sufficient size to allow for secure fit into eachcomponent. In some embodiments, the rescue breathing device is assembledfrom a kit of components, and thus a mechanical, friction fit isappropriate. It may be suitable to have a portion of the adaptor (10),to possess an O-ring or other component on each end, to function as agasket, to aid in the airtight fit of the components.

However, the device may also be appropriately manufactured withcomponents preattached, and this may include an adhesive suitable toattach such components. Where the rescue breathing device (1) ispremanufactured, such features, like the adaptor (10) may be excluded,as the precise fit of the one-way valve (12) may be manufactured to fitinto a proximal end (22) of the tube.

FIG. 8 details a one-way valve (12), having the flow side (16), thecheck side (17), a junction (18), and an internal valve (19). Those ofskill in the art recognize that numerous designs exist for check valves.The valve must allow passage of air from the flow side (16) through thecheck side (17) but prevent flow of air from the check side (17) back tothe flow side (16). This is so that when a patient is intubated, air canbe blown or provided from the distal end (21) and flow through theone-way check valve (12), through the double swivel elbow (12) andthrough the endotracheal tube (23) and into the patient's lungs, butwhen the patient exhales, gas will not pass through the one-way valve(12). Furthermore, blood, saliva, vomit, and other bodily fluids fromthe mouth and stomach will not be passed through the one-way valve (12)to the rescuing person. The one-way valve allows flow in one directionfrom the rescuer flow side (16) to the patient (check side [17]),however during the exhalation phase the exhaled air travels to theone-way valve (12) to the internal components (19) preventing returnflow to the rescuer end however there is a relief valve where theexhaled air is removed from the system allowing The patient to expireused air. This way there is room for new air to enter the lungs.

FIGS. 9A-9C detail portions of the double swivel elbow (4). The doubleswivel elbow (4) contains a short arm (50) and a long arm (51). On theshort arm (50) is the short arm end (5) of the double swivel elbow (4).This short arm end (5) contains an outer/inner diameter sufficient tomate with the check side (17) of the one-way check valve (12). At theopposing end of the short arm (50) is a self-sealing port (8). This portcan be utilized for further attachment of additional components. Indeed,the port may further accept an adapter to allow for attachment of suchaccessories. For example, oxygen may be attached at this point, ordirect placement of other gasses for surgical procedures as nonlimitingexamples. Due to the nature of the self-sealing port, a needle or othertube can be inserted and withdrawn, if such insertion is necessary toprovide oxygen or other medications to the intubated patient.

The long arm (51) of the double swivel elbow (4) possesses a junction(9) to allow for complete rotation of the double swivel elbow (4). Incertain embodiments, the junction (9) allows for free rotation of theshort arm (50) as compared to the long arm (51). In other embodiments,the components are fixed. The long arm (51) of the double swivel elbow(4) further optionally possesses an accordion (7) to allow for furtherrotation and movement of the double swivel elbow (4). For example, theaccordion structure (7) can allow for flexible rotation, angledorientation of the components, and provides for a component that allowsfor a high range of motion and flexibility to safely insert and intubatea patient, while allowing for range of motion. For example, theextension feature (52) along the longitudinal axis of the long arm (51)allows for extension of the double swivel elbow (4) away from the faceof the patient. Alternatively, the rotation or angling of the accordionstructure (7) can angle according to (53). The angle should be able toextend at least 90 degrees, and preferably up to 180 degrees, where suchangle can be generated along any orientation of the accordion structure(7). The ability to angle imparts additional flexibility to the use ofthe tube, because it allows for secure operation of the rescue breathingtube (1) while reducing the risk of extubation of the patient. At theend of the long arm (51) is the long arm end (6), for mating to abreathing device, such as a mask, endotracheal tube, or other device forpositioning in the airway of a patient.

On one portion of the short arm (50) is gas line attachment feature(30). This allows direct connection of a typical oxygen line to thedouble swivel elbow (4). Typically, this can be used once a patient isto a safe setting and oxygen is available to assist in treating thepatient. Other gasses can be administered through this line, as known tothose of skill in the art.

FIGS. 10A and 10B show each of the ends of the tube (2). For example onthe proximal end (22) are merely repeated to the adaptor (10), in linewith the one-way check valve (12), and then attaching to the short armend (5) of the double swivel elbow (4). FIG. 10B, conversely, shows thedistal end (21) connecting to the mouthpiece (15).

FIG. 11 details a complete rescue tube being attached to an endotrachealtube (23). Those of skill in the art will recognize that theendotracheal tube (23) functions by a small diameter tube having a softdistal end (26) and a balloon (25) near the distal end (26), which isinflated by an airline to assist in air flowing through the tube and notaround the tube. Furthermore, this balloon (25) assists in maintain thepositioning of the endotracheal tube. At the proximal end (24), the tubecontains an opening of sufficient diameter to mate with the long armopening (6).

FIG. 12 details a further embodiment that replaces the mouthpiece (15)with a breathing bag (40). The breathing bag (40) contains an apertureopening (41) to mate with an adaptor (10). The bag (40) contains a handstrap (42) to assist a user with holding the bag (40) and compressing itrepeatedly. At the tail end of the bag (40) is an oxygen reservoir (43)that can be filled with oxygen to increase the oxygen given through themanual compressions of the bag. Here, at the distal end (21) the adaptor(10) is necessary to allow for exchange of the mouthpiece (15) to thebag (40).

In certain embodiments, the diameter of the tube (2) is such that noadapter (10) is required. Indeed, the adapter may include severaldifferent diameter adapters (10), wherein one end is of constantdiameter, able to insert into the tube, while the other end has an outerdiameter and an inner diameter, each of which can connect to a secondarydevice. Several adapters (10) can be included with a kit, each havingdifferent outer and inner diameters of the opposing end, to allow for avariety of secondary devices to be inserted therein. Certain secondarydevices will fit directly into the tube (1) and thus the adapters (10)are optional for these features. The adapters (10) may further includelocking or latching mechanisms, to selectively attach and detachsecondary devices. For example, a breathing bag may selectively snapinto place and remain securely connected, but may be optionally removed,if the breathing bag (40) is no longer needed, but connection to adifferent breathing apparatus would be advantageous.

Adapters are particular useful, however, to allow the tube to be amultipurpose material. Accordingly, the adapters allow for a pluralityof components to be interchanged, as necessary, for the particularapplication of the breathing tube.

As depicted in FIG. 11, the rescue breathing device (1) allows forconnection to an endotracheal tube (23), without the requirement that abreathing bag be directly attached. Indeed, the mouthpiece, beingattached at the distal end (21) of the tube (2), allows for severalinches, to more than a foot, separation from the patient's endotrachealtube (23) to a device that is allowing a rescuer to provide air. Themouthpiece (15) is particularly advantageous as it allows for directbreathing to be given and does not require additional elements. Intactical situations, or areas where immediate intubation is necessary,such a device can ensure that the patient is receiving oxygen whilebeing safely removed from the situation, to receive additional care.Accordingly, the rescue breathing tube (1) can be utilized a distanceaway from the patient and leaves both hands for a rescuer free to workwith the patient. This enables a wider range of user opportunities, thanany existing technology.

Furthermore, this extra space can also be used in certain rescuesituations. For example, in the situation where an injured patient is ina space constrained position, due to a building collapse, due to a caraccident, a military situation, or the like, the rescue tube can beattached to a breathing tube, and inserted into in small space forrescue breathing, wherein the bag may not easily fit in that space, orcannot be angled properly to allow for attachment. Accordingly, toprovide rescue breathing, a rescuer can breathe directly into theopposed end of the flexible tubing (2). Alternatively, the rescuer canbreathe directly into a mouthpiece (15), which can be attached to thetube, to allow for hands free breathing to the patient. Similarly, a bag(40) can be attached at the distal end (21) of the rescue tube and allowfor compression of the bag to provide the air to the patient. In eachcase, the rescue tube provides for both stability of the breathing tube,as well as a flexible attachment to the breathing tube to provide mouthor bag generated air to the patient.

A further benefit of the rescue tube, whether use with a mouthpiece orwith an attached bag (40), is that because of the flexibility of boththe accordion structure (7) and of the flexibility of the tube (2), thetube (2) itself can freely move, while maintaining the endotracheal tube(23) in a stable spot within the patient. This is in direct contrast tothe normal occurrence for a bag, which can easily move the endotrachealtube (23). Of course, this is a problem as a patient may be extubated inerror, forcing rescuers to stop and reinsert the breathing tube to thepatient. Furthermore, the bag may not easily connect to the breathingtube, thus forcing the rescuers to manipulate the patient or have acompromised bag (i.e. mostly compressed, or poorly attached), thusresulting in shallow or weak breaths to the patient.

Therefore, the rescue tube (1) provides for several benefits that arenot seen in the prior art. First the tube provides for a flexible andaccordion like structure to allow for total flexibility and movement ofthe tube, even when connected to the breathing tube on the patient. Thedistal end (21) of the rescue tube can then be open, for direct breathsfrom a rescuer, or can be attached to a mechanical lung, or attached toa bag, for providing oxygen rich air to the patient, and forcing airinto the lungs. This provides for hands free operation of the rescuebreathing tube (1). Second, because of the small structure, the rescuebreathing tube (1) can fit into small spaces or locations and can allowfor easier attachment to an endotracheal tube (23) and thereforeattached to the patient regardless of the position of the patient.Finally, the flexible nature of the device prevents unintentionalremoval of the breathing tube.

Another way that the rescue tube can be utilized in a hands-free manneris to attach the rescue tube to an airway adjunct and connect theopposing end to a breathing bag. Because of the flexibility and lengthof the rescue tube, the bag can be placed under and arm, between thebody, and then compressed to provide air to the patient. The bag couldalso be placed between an arm or body and another accessory.

The rescue tube can therefore be utilized in a method to provide oxygento a patient comprising, inserting an airway adjunct to said patient,attaching to said airway adjunct a rescue tube, providing air into saidrescue tube to provide air to said patient.

The invention as described herein can be modified based on the knowledgeof a person of ordinary skill in the art with components that form thesame or similar function. Those of skill in the art will recognize suchpossible variations and that these variations do not take away from theembodiments of the invention as described herein.

A method of providing a rescue breath to a patient comprising: attachinga rescue tube as described herein, to an endotracheal tube inserted intosaid patient; breathing into a distal end (21) of the rescue tube,wherein said breathing forces air from a mouthpiece (15) through aflexible tube (2), through a one-way (12), into a double swivel elbow(4), and finally into the endotracheal tube (23).

Those of skill in the art will recognize that the components are made ofmedical grade materials, each of which are capable of being sterilizedfor use. In preferred embodiments, the materials are fitted together,either with and adhesive or friction fit, and sterilized. The sterilizeddevice can be packaged, and then sterile components can be utilized asneeded. Accordingly, these devices, after use, can then be recycled ordestroyed, or alternatively resterilized for future use.

Components are also sold as a kit, allowing for the components to beassembled based on the particular needs of a user.

In preferred embodiments, the device provides for rescue breathing use,while allowing for the rescuer to maintain free hands. A method ofproviding rescue breathing, therefore comprises inserting an air adjunctto the patient; attaching the rescue breathing device, and imparting airthrough the rescue breathing device to the patient, forcing air to thepatient and letting the patient exhale before providing a further andsuccessive breaths to said patient. The air can be provided via amouthpiece, and rescue breaths provided by breathing into themouthpiece. Alternatively, a breathing bag, which compresses air andforces it out of one end of the bag, can also provide air. Similarly, amachine or mechanical device can provide air under sufficient pressure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A rescue tube comprising a tube having a proximalend and a distal end, and attached to the proximal end is a one-wayvalve, said one-way valve having a flow end and a check end, wherein airflows from the distal end to the proximal end, and attached to the checkend of the one-way valve is a ported double swivel elbow, said porteddouble swivel elbow defining a Y shape and comprising a long arm and ashort arm, and wherein the long arm and the short arm are attached at anangle with a passage allowing passage of gas through the short arm andthe long arm via an opening at a short arm end and a long arm end, andcomprising a self-sealing port at an opposing end of the short arm end,wherein the opening at the short arm end is attached to the check end ofthe one-way valve, wherein the long arm comprises a structure capable ofextending in length and flexing, and wherein the opening at the long armend is suitable for connection to a breathing device; and whereinconnected to the distal end of said tube is a mouthpiece.
 2. The rescuetube of claim 1 further comprising a first adapter disposed of betweenthe proximal end of said tube and the flow end of the one-way valve. 3.The rescue tube of claim 1 further comprising a second adapter disposedof on the distal end between the distal end of the tube and themouthpiece.
 4. The rescue tube of claim 1, wherein said breathing deviceis an airway adjunct.
 5. The rescue tube of claim 5, wherein said airwayadjunct is an endotracheal tube.
 6. A method of providing rescuebreathing to a patient comprising: i. intubating said patient with anairway adjunct; ii. attaching to said airway adjunct a rescue tubecomprising a tube having a proximal end and a distal end, and attachedto the proximal end is a one-way valve, said one-way valve having a flowend and a check end, wherein air flows from the distal end to theproximal end, and attached to the check end of the one-way valve is aported double swivel elbow, said ported double swivel elbow defining a Yshape and comprising a long arm and a short arm, and wherein the longarm and the short arm are attached at an angle with a passage allowingpassage of gas through the short arm and the long arm via an opening ata short arm end and a long arm end, and comprising a self-sealing portat an opposing end of the short arm end, wherein the opening at theshort arm end is attached to the check end of the one-way valve, whereinthe long arm comprises a structure capable of extending in length andflexing, and wherein the opening on the long arm is connected to theairway adjunct; and wherein connected to the distal end of said tube isan air imparting component capable of forcing air through the tube andinto the airway adjunct; iii. forcing air through the tube and into theairway adjunct to generate a breath to the patient; and iv. allowing thepatient to exhale the forced air.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein theair imparting component is a mouthpiece.
 8. The method of claim 7,wherein a second person breathes into the mouthpiece to force airthrough the tube.
 9. The method of claim 6, wherein the air impartingcomponent is a breathing bag.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein thebreathing bag is compressed to force air through the tube.
 11. A rescuetube comprising a length of flexible tubing defining a passage between aproximal and distal end of said tube, and attached to the proximal endof said tube is a one-way valve, said one-way valve having a flow endand a check end, with said one-way valve oriented with the proximal endof said tube engaged to the flow end of said one-way valve therebyallowing flow of air from the distal end to the proximal end of saidtube, and attached to the check end of the one-way valve is a porteddouble swivel elbow having a long arm having a long end and a short armhaving a short end, and wherein the long arm and short arm are attachedat an angle with a passage allowing passage of gas through the short endand long end to an opening at each of the short end and long end,wherein the opening at the short end is attached to the check end of theone-way valve, wherein the opening at the long end is suitable forconnection to a breathing device; and wherein connected to the distalend of said tube is an air imparting structure.
 12. The rescue tube ofclaim 11, wherein said short arm comprises a self-sealing port.
 13. Therescue tube of claim 11, wherein the ported double swivel elbowcomprises an accordion structure on the long arm, said accordionstructure capable of bending.
 14. The rescue tube of claim 13, whereinsaid accordion structure is capable of bending at least 90 degrees. 15.The rescue tube of claim 13, wherein said accordion structure is capableof extending in length.
 16. The rescue tube of claim 13, said tubehaving an inner diameter between 10 and 25 mm.
 17. The rescue tube ofclaim 13 further comprising an adaptor defined to connect between theproximal end of said tube and said one-way valve.
 18. The rescue tube ofclaim 13, further comprising an adaptor defined to connect to the distalend of said tube, and wherein the air imparting structure is connectedto said adaptor.
 19. The rescue tube of claim 18, wherein said airimparting structure comprises a mouthpiece, said mouthpiece comprisingan insertion end connected to said adaptor; and a breath giving end,said breath giving end comprising a flange.
 20. The rescue tube of claim18, wherein said air imparting structure is selected from the groupconsisting of a mouthpiece comprising a flange, a breathing bag, amechanical airflow generating machine, and combinations thereof.